The 96-Puddle Paper Plate as a Versatile Lab-on-Paper Platform

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (µPADs) enable diverse analyte detection but face challenges in standardization and data reliability due to specialized equipment needs.
• Conventional µPAD designs limit high-throughput analysis, universal application, and consistent data acquisition, hindering broader scientific adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the 96-Puddle Paper Plate (96-PPP), a novel lab-on-paper platform designed for high-throughput analysis and compatibility with standard microplate readers.
• To demonstrate the 96-PPP's versatility in detecting various analytes and its capability for advanced biological studies, addressing limitations of existing µPADs.

Main Methods:

• Development of the 96-Puddle Paper Plate (96-PPP) as a scalable, cellulose-based sheet compatible with microplate readers.
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of analytes including acetone, magnesium ions, ascorbic acid, and ketone using visual inspection, smartphone imaging, absorbance, and fluorescence measurements.
• Investigation of amyloid deposition and proteolysis within cellulose networks mimicking extracellular matrix structures.

Main Results:

• The 96-PPP platform demonstrated high-throughput capabilities, enabling both qualitative and quantitative measurements for a range of analytes relevant to diagnostics and environmental monitoring.
• Achieved consistent detection of analytes across 480 puddles with low variation (3.5%) for amyloid deposition studies.
• Successfully replicated the functionality of 96-well plates while overcoming the limitations of conventional µPADs in terms of productivity, versatility, and reliability.

Conclusions:

• The 96-Puddle Paper Plate (96-PPP) represents a significant advancement in lab-on-paper technology, offering a standardized and scalable solution for high-throughput analysis.
• This versatile platform enhances the reliability and accessibility of µPADs, facilitating applications in clinical diagnostics, metabolic research, and environmental monitoring.
• The 96-PPP overcomes key limitations of conventional µPADs, paving the way for broader adoption and more robust scientific discovery.